The Peace and Conflict Resolution Evidence Platform (PeaceRep), a consortium of research and non-governmental institutions led by the University, has been commended for its work in supporting peace processes across the globe.
EAVE II, based at the Usher Institute, has been recognised for its work in developing a data resource that monitored and forecast the Covid-19 pandemic as it evolved in Scotland.
Both teams have received the Royal Society of Edinburgh's (RSE’s) Mary Sommerville Medal, an award for excellence in teamwork and collaboration in research.
Collaborative research
Elsewhere Dr Lara Kalnins received the RSE’s Rosemary Hutton Award for her collaborative work in the Earth sciences, combining data, analysis and modelling to bring new insights into the study of the dynamics of the Earth.
The medals were presented at an event at the Royal Society of Edinburgh.
PeaceRep, which is funded by the UK Government, uses research and big data analytics to help peacemakers learn lessons from previously negotiated peace deals.

The world-leading research has documented more than 2,000 peace agreements signed since 1990.
Peaceful solutions
The data has assisted mediators trying to find peaceful solutions to violence in countries including Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Iraq, Myanmar, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine and Yemen.
Professor Christine Bell, an expert in human rights law leads the team of more than 50 researchers, mediation practitioners, lawyers, data scientists, managers, and communications professionals.
The project includes members at other universities, such as: the Centre for Trust, Peace and Social Relations (CTPSR) at Coventry University; Conflict and Civicness Research Group at London School of Economics (LSE); Middle East Centre at LSE; Queens University Belfast; University of St Andrews; University of Stirling, as well as international organisations Conciliation Resources and International IDEA, and local research partners in case study countries.